How common is an ileus after abdominal surgery?
An ileus that lasts more than 3 days is considered a paralytic, or adynamic, ileus. POI readmission rates are estimated to be as high as 5% after major abdominal surgery. The economic impact of ileus has been estimated to be $750 million to about $1 billion in the United States.
Is postoperative ileus a complication?
Postoperative ileus is a common benign postoperative complication. Normal physiologic recovery should occur within 72 hours with supportive treatment. It is imperative to distinguish ileus from more severe or reversible problems such as mechanical obstruction.
What is postoperative ileus?
INTRODUCTION. Postoperative paralytic ileus refers to obstipation and intolerance of oral intake due to nonmechanical factors that disrupt the normal coordinated propulsive motor activity of the gastrointestinal tract following abdominal or nonabdominal surgery [1-3].
How can you tell the difference between intestinal obstruction and paralytic ileus?
Diagnosis Nausea, abdominal pain, bloating with vomiting, abdominal distention and obstipation being accompanying symptoms. Classically paralytic ileus is suggested by hypoactive bowel sounds whereas small bowel obstruction is described with rushes and bowel sounds consistent with peristalsis against the obstruction.
Why is my stomach distended after surgery?
Some degree of abdominal distension (swelling) is to be expected after surgery. This is due to distension of the intestines and resolves over time. Intraperitoneal gas pains are caused by gas trapped outside of the intestines, but inside the abdominal cavity.
Why does post op ileus occur?
Endogenous opioids are released after surgery and have been suggested as a cause of postoperative ileus. Their effects on gastric emptying and intestinal smooth-muscle contraction are mediated by the µ-opioid receptor.
What are two types of ileus?
Two types of ileus exist: postoperative and paralytic. Postoperative ileus resolves spontaneously after two to three days, and probably reflects inhibition of colonic motility. Paralytic ileus is more severe, last more than three days, and seems to represent inhibition of small bowel activity.